On Wednesday, the Ghana News Agency published a story in which the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Kingsford Bagbin, directed that Parliament’s Post-Budget Workshop should be held on the floor of the House, from Saturday, November 18 to Sunday, November 19, 2023.
In his presentation of the Business Statement for the week on Friday, November 10, 2023, Mr. Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, Vice Chairman of the Business Committee, told the House that the Post-Budget Workshop would be held at Rock City Hotel, Kwahu Nkwatia, in the Eastern Region.
“Mr. Speaker, the usual Post-Budget Workshop will be organised to allow experts to elucidate further on the underpinnings of the Budget Statement and Economic Policy of the Government to Members,” he said.
However, presiding over proceedings on the day, Rt. Hon. Alban Kingsford Bagbin directed that the venue for the Post-Budget Workshop be held in Parliament House, after Members of Parliament (MP) were divided on where to have the workshop, following a report by technical experts set up by the Speaker.
The Speaker announced the decision of the House, by stating that the previous decision by the Deputy Majority Leader, as per the venue of the Post-Budget Workshop, had been changed to the premises of Parliament House.
The decision of the Speaker to host the Post-Budget Workshop within the premises of Parliament is a commendable move that demonstrates prudent fiscal management. The Chronicle understands that the redirection of funds will save the nation approximately GH¢1.4 million, which would have been expended on an external venue.
This decision not only showcases fiscal responsibility, but also highlights the potential for redirecting these savings towards more pressing national needs.
The Speaker’s directive signifies a thoughtful evaluation of expenditures amidst Ghana’s economic problems. The realisation of substantial savings from changing the venue presents an opportunity to allocate these funds toward critical areas that could significantly benefit the nation.
This commendable decision of the Speaker sets a positive precedent for fiscal prudence and responsible resource management within the government. It demonstrates a commitment to making judicious use of public funds for the betterment of the nation.
While commending this decision, it is equally essential for Parliament and the governmental authorities to ensure transparent and efficient utilisation of state funds, ensuring they are prudently used for pressing national needs. Openness in financial accountability remains crucial to guaranteeing that these resources serve the intended purposes and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s development.
The Chronicle lauds the Speaker of Parliament for displaying fiscal responsibility, which might have cost the nation about GH¢1.4 million.
